Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Real-Time Monitoring of Aurora kinase A Activation using Conformational FRET Biosensors in Live Cells
Published on: July 30, 2020
Aurora kinases: structure, functions and their association with cancer
Madhu Kollareddy1, Petr Dzubak, Daniella Zheleva
1Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
Background:
Aurora kinases are a recently discovered family of kinases (A, B & C) consisting of highly conserved serine\threonine protein kinases found to be involved in multiple mitotic events: regulation of spindle assembly checkpoint pathway, function of centrosomes and cytoskeleton, and cytokinesis. Aberrant expression of Aurora kinases may lead to cancer. For this reason the Aurora kinases are potential targets in the treatment of cancer. In this review we discuss the biology of these kinases: structure, function, regulation and association with cancer.
Methods And Results:
A literature search.
Conclusion:
Many of the multiple functions of mitosis are mediated by the Aurora kinases. Their aberrant expression can lead to the deregulation of cell division and cancer. For this reason, the Aurora kinases are currently one of the most interesting targets for cancer therapy. Some Aurora kinase inhibitors in the clinic have proven effectively on a wide range of tumor types. The clinical data are very encouraging and promising for development of novel class of structurally different Aurora kinase inhibitors. Hopefully the Aurora kinases will be potentially useful in drug targeted cancer treatment.
Insights
Aurora kinases regulate cell division and are implicated in cancer. Inhibitors targeting these kinases show promise for effective cancer therapy, making them key targets for drug development.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Aurora kinases (A, B, C) are serine/threonine protein kinases crucial for mitosis.
- Their functions include spindle assembly, centrosome and cytoskeleton regulation, and cytokinesis.
- Aberrant Aurora kinase expression is linked to cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biology of Aurora kinases, including their structure, function, and regulation.
- To explore the association between Aurora kinases and cancer.
- To discuss their potential as therapeutic targets in oncology.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted.
- Key studies on Aurora kinase biology and cancer association were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Aurora kinases play essential roles in multiple mitotic events.
- Dysregulation of Aurora kinases contributes to uncontrolled cell division and tumorigenesis.
- Existing Aurora kinase inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy across various tumor types.
Conclusions:
- Aurora kinases are vital regulators of cell division and significant targets for cancer treatment.
- Clinical data for Aurora kinase inhibitors are promising, supporting further development.
- Novel Aurora kinase inhibitors offer potential for targeted cancer therapies.
Related Concept Videos
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
M-Cdk Drives Transition Into Mitosis
Cyclin-dependent kinases, or Cdks, work in concert with cyclins to control cell cycle transitions. M-Cdk, a complex of Cdk1 bound to M cyclin, is a well-known example of this coordinated control that drives the transition from the G2 to the M phase.
M cyclin...
Protein Kinases and Phosphatases
Protein kinases
Many proteins in the cell are regulated by phosphorylation, the addition of a phosphate group. A family of enzymes called kinases...
Protein Kinases and Phosphatases
Protein kinases
Many proteins in the cell are regulated by phosphorylation, the addition of a phosphate group. A family of enzymes called kinases...

